2025 Conference Summary

What an incredible gathering we had at the 2025 KCSEA Educational Conference, held June 12–13 at the Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Topeka Hotel! Our theme, “Strengthening Partnerships for a Brighter Future,” resonated throughout the two days as we connected, learned, and re-energized our shared commitment to child support and human services.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of last year's fundraising team, we were able to award three Jim Robertson Scholarships to deserving incoming freshmen, the most awarded in one year! This year we honored Adam Watkins, Preslie May, and Kylie Dexter, all of whom are planning to enter the medical field upon graduation. In addition, we raised $2,165 for the scholarship fund.

Each year, we take time to recognize the extraordinary dedication, innovation, and heart that our colleagues bring to the field of child support. The KCSEA Excellence Awards are our opportunity to shine a light on the individuals and teams who go above and beyond in serving Kansas families. To all of our winners: Thank you. Your work represents the best of what we do - and the heart behind why we do it. 

Attendees participated in a rich and diverse array of position specific, professional development, and CLE sessions designed to inform, inspire, and elevate practice across all areas of child support services. These sessions addressed topics such as case management fundamentals, financial systems, intergovernmental collaboration, workforce development, and legal and ethical considerations. We also explored timely innovations, including trauma-informed communication, the use of AI in legal research, and advancing tribal

partnerships. The sessions reflected our commitment to equipping professionals at every level with the tools and

perspectives needed to serve Kansas families with excellence and compassion.

From the stirring opening ceremonies—featuring Meghan Reynolds’s rendition of the National Anthem and an electrifying performance by Topeka High Drum Line—to the interactive and heartfelt keynote address by Maureen Leif, the spirit of partnership and collaboration was palpable from the start. Maureen’s keynote address offered valuable insights into the dynamics of partnership, emphasizing the importance of treating colleagues with respect and consideration. She advocated for a transition from transactional partnerships to human-centered collaborations rooted in mutual trust, care, and relational accountability.

This conference would not have been possible without the incredible efforts of our board, volunteers, presenters, and

members. I want to extend a special thank you to the following outgoing board members for their dedicated service and leadership: Nicolette Bennett, Sarah Delgado, Terri Greer, Kristie Haynes, Shannon Kroh, Lori Myers, and Brandi Ridgeway. Your time, talent, and energy have helped shape a stronger KCSEA, and we are deeply grateful. We also offer a warm welcome to our new board

members: Ashley Dexter, Helen White, Jennifer Pettengil, Rachel Wheeler, Courtney Sweeney, Jennifer Janssen, Meghan Reynolds, and Tori Baire. We’re excited to work alongside them as we continue building on our momentum.

In 2024, the Kansas Child Support Educational Association (KCSEA) took a trip "Back to the Future," and what a ride it was! The conference was a smashing success, blending the wisdom of the past with the innovations of the future to strengthen the child support community in Kansas. 

One of the highlights of our time-traveling adventure was the awarding of the prestigious Jim Robertson Scholarship to Kylie Dexter. With the collective effort and generosity of our participants, we raised an impressive $2,721.06 for the scholarship fund.

This year, we honored 8 rock stars in the child support community with excellence awards, celebrating their outstanding contributions and dedication. These individuals truly exemplify the spirit of progress and innovation that drives our mission forward. 

In a plenary-style approach, we offered a comprehensive understanding of many aspects of the child support system, ensuring that our collective knowledge continues to grow. 

The conference was energized by a dynamic performance from the Topeka High Drumline, setting the perfect rhythm for our journey. We were also honored to have OCSS Commissioner Tanguler Gray deliver an inspiring keynote address, guiding us with her insights and vision for the future of child support. 

As we reflect on this year's conference, it's clear that we’ve not only revisited our past successes but have also laid the groundwork for a future where the child support community in Kansas continues to thrive. Thank you to everyone who joined us on this incredible journey "Back to the Future." Let's continue to make history together!